Technology Initiatives Fact Sheet (updated Jan 08)

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»  What everyone needs to know: 

All computers should have an AntiVirus program, an AntiSpyware program, and regular Windows Updates to keep it running properly. The following paragraphs contains information that will explain more about why.

Spyware can be any software that covertly gathers user information through the user's Internet connection without his or her knowledge, usually for advertising purposes. It is commonly installed, unknowingly, while installing other programs.
Once installed, the spyware monitors user activity on the Internet and transmits that information in the background to someone else. Spyware can also gather information about e-mail addresses and even passwords and credit card numbers. The following are links to a couple of (currently) free Anti-Spyware programs:
» Microsoft's Windows Defender
» LavaSoft's Ad-AWare

A Virus is a program or piece of code that is loaded onto your computer without your knowledge and runs against your wishes. . Some viruses do more than simply replicate themselves, they might display messages, install other software or files, delete software of files, etc. 
The Latest Virus Threat Information can be found at Symantec.com
Everyone should have an Antivirus program installed. Symantec's Norton Antivirus and McAfee Antivirus seem to be the most popular. All antivirus programs must be kept updated with the newest definitions. If you do not know how to do this, you should ask your Tech person or a computer geek friend or read the help file.
If no antivirus program is available, an online scan can be run to detect any viruses that you may already have. The following are links to two of them:
» Symantec - detects viruses and if any are found, explains how to get rid of them. 
» Trend HouseCalls - detects and disinfects viruses.

Windows Updates
Microsoft often issues updates to keep your computer secure from hackers, worms, and viruses. It is very important that your computer gets these updates (recommended monthly).
With Internet Explorer open, choose the »Windows Update» from the »Tools» menu.

To download the latest version of Internet Explorer, click here.